Military Pilots: Observations on Current Issues,
Abstract
The extent of pilot shortages is unclear due to questions over the validity of pilot requirements and the availability of the data on which the shortages are based. Currently, the services are reporting that they are able to fill all of their operational flying positions but are unable to fill all of their nonflying staff positions that are designated for qualified pilots. The seriousness of these shortages is unclear because the services have not made comprehensive assessments of their nonflying positions to determine how many of these staff positions might not have to be filled by pilots. The services report that 20 to 40 percent of their pilot positions are designated as nonflying positions. Notwithstanding difficulties with the requirements, the Air Force projects that its greatest shortfall, particularly within its fighter community, will occur in fiscal year 2007 and then taper off. Navy data indicate that the Navy may have already experienced its greatest pilot shortfall, particularly within its helicopter community, in fiscal year 1998, and that its pilot shortage will gradually dissipate although not disappear.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 04, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA361487
Entities
People
- Mark E. Gebicke
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office